2017 09-21 SB Channel
There was a moderate breeze and surface chop on our side of the Santa Barbara Channel. This restricted our search and watch strategies to the northern regions relatively close to Santa Barbara Harbor. That considered, Captain Eric and his crew ran west to the 50-fathom line near Platform Holly. Here there were at least 5 active humpback whales, and 3 were closely watched. At least 1,000 long-beaked common dolphins were also closely watched.
It is frequently the case that when the marine weather includes some wind and waves, the humpback whales get active. Today that theory was definitely operating as numerous breaching whales were seen, some close to the Condor Express. Other behaviors included tail-slapping and pectoral fin slapping. These are fantastic whale behaviors that are made even more wild by the dramatic ocean conditions.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express
PS Our public whale watch for Friday, 9/22 has been cancelled due to forecasted marine weather and sea conditions